Kaka recalled to Brazil squad for friendlies against Italy and Russia

Real Madrid's Kaka has been recalled to Brazil squad for friendlies against Italy and Russia, but Ronaldinho misses out.

Last Updated: 05/03/13 7:21pm

Kaka: Drafted back into the Brazil squad by Luiz Felipe Scolari

Kaka was overlooked by national coach Luiz Felipe Scolari for his first game in charge, against England on 6th February.

His last outing for his country came in November 2012, as he figured in Brazil's 1,000th game - a 1-1 draw with Colombia.

He has struggled to find regular football at Real since then, but has been offered an opportunity to prove his worth to Scolari as Brazilian football continues its countdown to the 2014 World Cup.

Ronaldinho has, however, paid the price for a disjointed display at Wembley - a game in which he missed a penalty and was substituted at half-time.

The 32-year-old former World Player of the Year is desperate to make next summer's World Cup, having missed out in 2010, but will need to raise his game domestically if he is to force his way back into contention.

Looking at the rest of the squad, Chelsea once again have three representatives in the Brazil ranks, with David Luiz, Ramires and Oscar making the grade.

Queens Park Rangers goalkeeper Julio Cesar is another Premier League representative in the 22-man party.

Brazil squad for friendly dates with Italy in Geneva on 21st March and Russia at Stamford Bridge on 25th March: